Although you may not think of Las Vegas as the first destination when it comes to seeing some culture, the Gallery of Fine Art at the Bellagio is one of the best places in town to see some of your favorite modern artists. The exhibits change seasonally but there are always very famous paintings on display. Right now the exhibit is American Modernism. The American Modernism period came about during the 20^th century and came to its peak towards the end of World War II. This influential movement caused artists to rethink typical subject matters like still life and landscape. Many artists began to use abstract form in many of their paintings. The focus moved more onto people and even abstract art, which at the time was a developing form of art. Artists painted traditional scenes including parts of nature but did them in an abstract way. There are currently 30 masterpieces open for viewing.

When the gallery first opened many critics thought they were crazy for opening an art gallery in Las Vegas. Most people come to Vegas to gamble, drink, see shows, but not to see famous pieces of art. However, soon after the gallery opened they had to move it to a much larger space to keep up with its high demand. People respected the cultural experience and came out in large numbers to view the paintings. However, when Steve Wynn sold the hotel to MGM Mirage, he took most of the paintings with him because many were personally owned by him. While now most of the artwork is borrowed, the news owners have expanded the collection and rotate it frequently since now the paintings are owned mostly by museums instead of one person. Since the change, the gallery has seen huge success.

As you approach the gallery you will soon realize that you are in for a treat because the front of the gallery is beautifully decorated and there are velvet ropes blocking the entrance, giving the place a mysterious appeal. Even those not interested in art can’t help but wonder what is behind the ropes and why so many people are trying to get in. The museum charges admission unlike many of the free exhibits located throughout the hotel. The tour also comes with headphones that will explain all about the magnificent art that you will be viewing.

The Bellagio continues to keep up its standards as one of the most culturally influential hotels in all of Las Vegas.  If you don’t make it to the gallery, there is still plenty of art on display all over the Bellagio. The resort’s most famous restaurant, Picasso, is decorated with Pablo Picasso originals all over the walls.